What is the difference between laser and standard cataract surgery?
If you’re exploring treatment for cataracts, you may have come across two terms: standard cataract surgery and laser cataract surgery.
Are they the same? What’s the difference? And does one offer better results?
At Sharmina Khan Eye Clinic, we offer both options—and we’re here to help you understand how they differ so you can make an informed choice.
What is traditional cataract surgery?
In standard cataract surgery, the surgeon uses a tiny blade to:
- Make a small incision in the eye
- Open the capsule that holds the cloudy lens
- Use high frequency ultrasound to break up and remove the cataract
- Insert a new artificial lens.
This procedure is highly successful and widely performed.
What is laser cataract surgery?
Laser cataract surgery uses a femtosecond laser to assist with the first steps of surgery:
- Making a precise incision
- Create a circular opening to the lens capsule at precisely 5.5mm diameter and perfectly centred.
- Break the cataract up into small pieces
This approach offers enhanced precision and may lead to better outcomes, especially when combined with premium lenses.
Key Differences
| Step | Traditional | Laser-assisted |
| Incision | Manual | Laser |
| Lens capsule opening | Manual | Laser-created |
| Cataract removal | Ultrasound | Pre-softened by laser into small pieces |
| Imaging | Standard | Eye- tracking and 3D mapping |
Which is more accurate?
Laser-assisted surgery allows for greater consistency and customisation. The laser uses a detailed scan of your eye to guide each step, which can be especially helpful in patients with astigmatism or complex vision needs.
Does laser mean no surgeon is involved?
No. Your surgeon still performs the surgery. The laser is a tool—not a replacement. But it allows the surgeon to perform key steps with higher precision and using less energy inside the eye..
What are the benefits of laser cataract surgery?
- Greater precision
- Better lens positioning
- Less ultrasound energy needed
- Improved results with premium lenses
- Possibly faster recovery.
Is there a cost difference?
Yes. Laser cataract surgery is typically offered privately and may cost more than traditional surgery. Many patients feel it’s worth the investment—especially if it helps reduce their need for glasses.
Both types of surgery are safe and effective. But laser cataract surgery offers added precision, especially for patients choosing advanced lenses or seeking the best possible visual result.
Not sure which is right for you? Take our quick self-test and find out what suits your eyes and your lifestyle.
Are you suitable for vision treatments?
They aren’t suitable for everyone.
Find out if you could benefit from this life-changing surgery by taking the quick self-suitability quiz below:
Our most popular procedures
What our patients say…
★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Had cataract surgery on both eyes simultaneously last week and, 7 days later, the vision is brilliant. I can see to read as well, including small print smaller than I expected! I can see car number plates at the end of the road. Everything was excellent, and I could not have wished for anything better.”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“My cataract surgery was a great experience. My vision is now brighter; overall, I felt informed and secure throughout, and I am glad I did it and definitely recommend Sharmina Khan. Everyone at the hospital was great, very professional, friendly, and treated me very nicely. During the surgery, I didn’t feel any pain at any time. The recovery was very easy and smooth.”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I was very nervous about having cataract surgery, as I have other medical conditions in both eyes. Ms. Khan allayed all of my fears and explained everything in detail to me. Now that both surgeries are completed, I couldn’t be more pleased with the results. I’m seeing things I’ve not been able to see properly in years. Amazing!”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Ms. Sharmina Khan is an outstanding eye consultant. She took the time to listen attentively to my concerns and provided thoughtful, easy-to-understand explanations. Her depth of knowledge and ability to address my questions left me thoroughly satisfied with her services. I highly recommend Ms. Sharmina Khan to anyone seeking expert eye care and guidance.”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I had cataract surgery in both eyes. The procedure was painless, easy to understand, and swift. My anxiety levels were very low, and recovery was quick and easy. I was just so relaxed. My vision was like being Wonder Woman. It was so clear, and it was like someone had cleaned a window. Now, my vision is fine for reading, computer use, and using a sewing machine.”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Extremely happy with vision following cataract surgery. I wish I had it done sooner. The colors I am experiencing, I didn’t know existed. The experience was really good; it wasn’t much painful. I really enjoyed the sandwiches afterward. When I got home, I saw every little mark on the walls and now am cleaning up!”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“6/5. Incredibly impressed with Miss Khan’s bedside manner and operation and consultation. I have had the Synergy toric lens and have experienced a dramatic increase in distance vision. Now, I am able to read stuff on the television perfectly, and reading small print, I can now read the back of a tin of beans!”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“Miss Khan was very professional, and both my eyes had trifocal intra-ocular lens implants (toric in the left). The risks and benefits were explained to my satisfaction, and I was very nervous. However, the procedure and the recovery were painless. I now have perfect unaided vision in both eyes and would recommend Miss Khan, 10 out of 10.”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I’m so pleased I sought Sharmina Khan’s help. My dry eye problem was debilitating. I turned up to my appointment in a very worried state and left reassured. My eyes are now vastly better. I feel in good hands. Thank you!”
Verified patient on Doctify★ ★ ★ ★ ★
“I have had Lipiflow a few times now, and I couldn’t do without it because it really gets rid of my gritty and sore eyes for months at a time. Lipiflow has helped me go back to doing normal things without getting frustrated, like driving, tolerating air conditioning, generally tolerating different humidity levels, and not feeling like I need to use eye drops all the time. I would highly recommend it.”
Verified patient on DoctifyWe have replaced the images of real patients who provided these testimonials to protect their privacy.
Sharmina Khan
MBBS(Lond) MSc FHEA FRCOphth DipCRS CertLRS, Consultant Eye Surgeon
Hi, I’m Sharmina Khan
I am a specialist Cataract & Lens Consultant Surgeon based in London.
I have carried out over 7000+ cataract/lens procedures in the last 10 years across both my private and NHS practices.
In my private clinic I offer my clients bespoke Premium Cataract Care Pathways. There are options so that you can achieve your dreams of better vision and more, according to your lifestyle needs.
